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14.12.07

First Aid Tips

If victim complains of neck or back injuries, definitely do not move until ambulance arrives. If it is essential that the patient be moved, transport by means of stretcher only. A make shift stretcher can be made from a ladder or board.

Put bandage directly on wound and apply pressure. Do not remove bandage, as it may disrupt the clotting process--simply add additional bandage to the wound.If there are no signs of fracture, elevate wound above patient's heart.If fracture is present, keep wound stationery.

If excess bleeding persists, press firmly at pressure point which cuts off blood flow to the wounded area.

Artificial Respiration

With one hand supporting the back of neck, tilt head backward--remove any foreign object from mouth.Pinch nostrils shut--to prevent any air leakage when inflating the lungs.

Make an airtight seal around patient's mouth with your own lips. Blow air into patient's mouth.

Remove your mouth from patient-- put ear next to patient's mouth and listen for any kind of exhalation.

The above process should be repeated every five seconds (children--every three seconds).

Repeat until patient responds or ambulance arrives.

Heart Attack Symptoms:

Pain and pressure in center of chest. It may shoot outwards-- usually to left shoulder and arm.

Pain may move to neck, jaws, arms and across chest.

Skin will take on a bluish color.

Patient may then begin to perspire, vomit, have shortness of breath or faint.

Treatment:

Call physician immediately (specify need for oxygen).

Keep patient in horizontal position.

Keep patient warm and comfortable--loosen collar

If breathing has stopped, give mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.

Shock When to be aware of shock

Any time victim has suffered serious injury or has become seriously ill.

Treatment:

Keep victim in horizontal position. If there are any signs of head or chest injury, keep head and shoulders elevated.

Keep patient warm--to prevent loss of body heat, wrap patient in blanket or any other available material.

Call a physician immediately.

If medical assistance is delayed for more than two hours, administer the following fluid every 15 to 20 minutes:

--4 oz. warm water (2 oz. to children)

--1/8 tsp salt

pinch of baking soda

Do not give fluid to patient who is vomiting, unconscious, has head injuries, or is complaining of abdominal injuries.

S Y M P T O M SPain and redness at the site of the sting or bite. Possible allergic reactions such as shock and difficulty in breathing.T R E A T M E N TApply cold compresses to bites and stings. Calamine lotion may be soothing also. Call an ambulance or go to the hospital when signs of allegic reactions are present, such as rash, wheezing or troubled breating.

S Y M P T O M SUnconscious. Heavy breathing. Apparent weakness in face or limbs on one side of the body. Inability to speak.T R E A T M E N TCover patient with a light blanket. Turn head of vomiting patient to side. Give no stimulants and nothing to eat or drink. Call an ambulance.